The road to general elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo is getting closer and closer, and speculation about the candidacy of President Félix Tshisekedi continues to fuel political discussions. As various political parties, groupings and electoral platforms try to find their place in this changing political landscape, the National Campaign Committee (CNC) of Pius Muabilu offers a clear option: the candidacy of Tshisekedi on the UDPS list.
The CNC justifies this proposal by referring to the legacy of the late Dr. Etienne Tshisekedi wa Mulumba, founder of the UDPS, who devoted his life to fighting against anti-values and defending the aspirations of a rule of law in the DRC. According to the CNC, this candidacy would honor the memory of the patriarch and would pay tribute to the militants of the UDPS who courageously fought against past dictatorships for the advent of real political change.
The CNC also points out that this suggested candidacy was made on May 9, 2021, with the support of activists and executives gathered around Pius Muabilu. Since then, the CNC has been actively working for the re-election of Félix Tshisekedi, calling on all Congolese patriots to join them in consolidating the gains of the change underway in the country.
This CNC proposal has won rapid support from the Congolese political class, and the CNC commends the National Independent Electoral Commission (CENI) for its work so far. They encourage all stakeholders to play their part for a peaceful electoral process, the results of which will be a source of celebration for the country.
In addition, the CNC also welcomed the start of the Bukanga Lonzo trial, considering this as an opportunity for the Congolese to know the truth about this economic crime. They also demand severe sanctions for the remarks deemed irresponsible by the former president of the CENI, concerning the alleged presence of FDLR elements in the ranks of the FARDC. According to the CNC, these acts constitute high treason and are influenced by external forces such as Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
Pending the December 2023 elections, the question of Felix Tshisekedi’s candidacy remains at the center of political concerns in the DRC. The CNC’s suggestion that he stand on the UDPS list reflects a desire to perpetuate the legacy of the late Dr. Etienne Tshisekedi and defend the ideals of the UDPS